Few travel moments rival the serenity and awe of watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s iconic temple complex. In November, the weather is cooler, the sky clearer, and the crowd more energized after the rainy season. I captured these special moments around 6:00 AM, using my Canon 4000D with a 55–250mm lens, and it was absolutely worth the early wake-up.
A Brief Story of Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, originally built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II. Dedicated initially to the Hindu god Vishnu, it later became a Buddhist site. Its five towers represent Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
Today, Angkor Wat stands as a symbol of Cambodia and appears on the national flag. It attracts millions of visitors each year.
Why You Should Experience Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat isn’t just a photo opportunity—it’s a spiritual and emotional journey. As the first light breaks through the horizon, the silhouette of the temple emerges against a gradient sky of purple, pink, orange, and blue. The cool morning air, peaceful ambiance, and reflective lotus pond create a memory that stays with you long after your trip ends.
November is one of the best months to visit. The skies are often clear after the rainy season, and the lighting is ideal for photography.
Travel Photography with Canon 4000D + 55–250mm Lens
All of the images shown here were taken with the Canon EOS 4000D paired with a 55–250mm lens. This setup allowed me to:
Zoom in for detailed silhouettes of the temple towers.
Capture wide shots of the temple and palm trees against dramatic skies.
Stay lightweight and flexible while moving around the reflection pool.
Even if you’re not a pro photographer, this camera and lens combo is great for beginners who want high-quality sunrise shots.
How to Get to Angkor Wat for Sunrise
Location: 5.5 km (3.4 miles) north of Siem Reap city center.
Transport Options:
- Tuk-tuk: Most popular and affordable. Book the night before; sunrise tours typically start around 4:30–5:00 AM.
- Bicycle: Great for adventurous travelers. Allow 30–45 minutes depending on your location.
- Private car or van: Ideal for families or groups wanting more comfort.
- Tour guides: Consider hiring a licensed guide for insights into temple history.
Entrance Ticket:
You’ll need an Angkor Pass. As of now:
- 1-day: $37
- 3-day: $62
- 7-day: $72
Purchase at the official Angkor Ticket Center before visiting the temple.
Gallery
Photo by Sathya Moth
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